Deputy Director

Role

We are seeking a deputy director to support the development of a new Institute for Cultural Innovation, providing strategic leadership across its portfolio of research led cultural activities; coordinating and delivering projects to build capacity and enhance the vitality of York St John University's research culture; advancing ethical, intersectional, and inclusive approaches to creative sector innovation; and developing and maintaining close links with regional, national, and international organisations and stakeholders.

Required skills and experience

Commensurate with a Grade 9 appointment, the successful candidate will demonstrate a strong record of internationally excellent research outputs, either in standard form or practice based, alongside the capacity to supervise PGRs, develop partnerships and initiate income generation in the arts, culture, and heritage sector.

Evidence of collaborative and interdisciplinary research activity would be a distinct advantage. Evidence of collegial leadership, exceptional interpersonal skills, mentorship, and contribution to inclusive academic environments will be particularly valued. Flexible patterns of engagement will be agreed to reflect the fractional nature of the appointment.

Unfortunately this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship, however we welcome your application if you are able to evidence right to work in the UK via an alternative route.

We offer a range of family friendly and inclusive policies and facilities and welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. We consider all requests for job share or flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of employee benefits including:

• Excellent annual leave entitlement, including five discretionary university closure days over the Christmas period
• Disability leave (applies to staff who have disclosed a disability and is also available to staff with disabled dependants)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Paid leave for Armed Forces Reservists
• On campus courses, one to one tutorials, and online resources to help you develop your digital skills and work with new software
• Relocation expenses package for certain roles
• Reimbursement of Skilled Worker Visa application fees and a Visa loan scheme for additional costs (if applicable to the role)

Closing Date - Wednesday 01 July 2026 at midnight

Provisional Interview Date - Monday 20 July 2026